Event Summary
On 16 December 2025, Zambia’s National Assembly passed the Constitution of Zambia (Amendment) Bill No. 7 of 2025, introducing expanded constituencies and a mixed-member proportional representation electoral system. Following parliamentary approval, President Hakainde Hichilema on 18 December 2025, officially assented to the law, the Constitution of Zambia (Amendment) Bill No. 7 of 2025, urging Zambians to unite and focus on national development.
The enactment formalizes significant constitutional and electoral reforms ahead of the 2026 General Elections. Despite government assurances that the amendments will enhance representation and improve parliamentary efficiency, the law was adopted amid strong opposition from civil society organizations (CSOs), faith-based groups, opposition political parties, and constitutional law experts, who raised concerns regarding limited public consultation, procedural expediency, and the long-term implications for democratic accountability.